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Best Natural Sunscreen – Sun Cream I Recommend For Babies, Kids, and Adults

Sunscreen. It’s kind of a confusing issue in the natural world. The conventional options are bad for you. And lot of the “green” ones aren’t much better. So do we make our own, buy a natural one, or skip it all together? What is the best natural sunscreen?

Let’s dive in in this post and video!

Importance of natural sunlight

Vitamin D deficiencies are quite common today, especially if you live north of the Mason-Dixion line. In fact, 1 billion people worldwide are deficient in this important vitamin. It’s critical for boosting immunity, developing strong bones and metabolic regulation.

The best way for us to get vitamin D is from the sun. a hormone manufactured by the skin in the presence of sunlight.

So, in the summer mornings, I try to get the kids out so their skin can get some safe sun… and boost their vitamin D levels. You can even let them run around naked in the summer and enjoy 10-15 minutes of sunbathing without any sunscreen. This should be outside of the peak sun window of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

I also generally don’t put sunscreen on my kids if we’re headed to a shady park or out and about for the day and not getting direct doses of midday sun. BUT, this can vary depending on how sensitive your child’s skin is to sun. Keep in mind that a few blistering sunburns in childhood can double a person’s lifetime chances of developing serious forms of skin cancer.

When we move to Florida, or if we go to the pool or beach for the day, you better believe I protect my kid’s skin from the sun.

Sunshirts – the best natural sunscreen?

I found one solution that really helps when we went to Costa Rica. I was a little nervous of my kid’s delicate white winter skin facing a climate that was in the mid- nineties and there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. I’m super happy to report that over the course of 3 weeks, neither of them got a sunburn! YAY! A huge reason why is we had our kids wear sun shirts. I highly recommend these shirts as they are such a nice alternative to constantly having to apply sunscreen! Let’s face it, it can be a bear putting it on little ones constantly.

By having Griffin and Paloma wear these, about half of their body was already protected from the sun. I just needed to apply some sunscreen to their face/neck, although hats can also help, and legs and feet.

So, what do I like to use for sunscreen? Well, I avoid conventional sunscreen because it contains harmful ingredients.

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Conventional sun screen ingredients

Oxybenzone

This stuff absorbs into the skin and circulates in the body. It acts like an estrogen and, in studies, it alters sperm production. The Environmental Working Group rates it a 8 for safety with the most toxic products being a 10.

Octinoxate

Also absorbs into the skin stimulates hormone-like activity; There are reproductive system, thyroid and behavioral changes after exposure in animal studies.

Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene…

These are all absorbed into skin and have some potentially harmful effects.

So those are just the UV filters found in conventional sunscreen. Most will have parabens to preserve the product and chemical fragrances. Both of these can have carcinogenic effects over the long haul.

So we want to avoid these chemicals and look for a more natural solution…

Natural sunblock vs. sunscreen

There is a difference between sunscreen and sunblock. Sunscreen is made of smaller particles that absorb into skin and isn’t noticeable but affects the body in undesirable ways over the long haul. Sunscreen screens UV rays — keeping most rays out, but letting some in. Whereas, sunblock is usually comprised of minerals that physically block and redirect the sunrays so they don’t penetrate the skin.

As a result, sunblock is a thicker, usually white substance that is harder to rub in. You can spot a natural mama by streaks of white all over her children.

It’s part of the consequence of going natural… One tip, is to let your natural sunblock get a little warm. Let it sit in the sun for 5 minutes. This will melt the lotion more and make it easier to apply.

OK, so let’s unpack the two minerals commonly used to block UVs:

Sunblock Ingredients

Titanium Dioxide

This is relatively safe but it isn’t a broad spectrum in blocking both UVA and UVB rays. Titanium Dioxide also potentially creates more free radicals that can cause oxidative damage to your body and skin cells. Titanium Dioxide contains titanium, which is just another toxic heavy metal in our bodies; Zinc is a critical mineral nutrient. You won’t find Titanium in your vitamins, but you certainly will find Zinc.

Zinc Oxide

This is the best of the two minerals because it covers the full spectrum of UV protection and doesn’t contribute as much to free radical development. It’s also the only sunblock recommended by the FDA for babies under 6 months.

Avobenzone

This is a relatively safe chemical and effective sunblock but it does have a higher rate of skin sensitivities. Mexoryl SX is another chemical that appears safer than most used but it doesn’t have FDA approval yet.

What’s the deal about non-nano, nanoparticle, micronized zinc oxide?

Surprise surprise, there’s even some controversy around sun block! Want to go down the rabbit hole with me?

These’s this whole debate about “nanoparticles” and non-nano particles.

OK, because zinc oxide is so thick and pasty, many manufacturers grind down zinc oxide to nanoparticles, as these formulations rub in better and don’t leave as much of the white pasty look.

Keep in mind, while particle sizes vary among manufacturers, nearly all would be considered nanomaterials under a broad definition of the term so non-nano is kinda misleading.

The US FDA has declined to weigh in on this controversial issue and does not currently define ‘nano’ or ‘non-nano.’ As a general rule, if advertised as micronized zinc oxide, you’re probably going to have a smaller particle product.

By definition, a nanoparticle has a diameter of less than 100 nanometers. To put this in perspective, a sheet of paper is about 100,000 nanometers thick. So any sunblocks that have particles smaller than 100 nanaometers would be considered a nanoparticle.

Keep in mind that most scientists believe that a 30-50 nanometer particle size does not penetrate healthy skin.

Some studies indicate that nanoparticles can harm living cells and organs, but the large number of research studies have produced no evidence that zinc oxide nanoparticles can cross the skin barrier. A real-world study tested penetration of zinc oxide particles of 19 and 110 nanometers on human volunteers who applied sunscreens twice daily for five days. Researchers found that less than 0.01 percent of the zinc from either particle size entered the bloodstream.

You also want to find a sunscreen that uses uncoated zinc oxide. Some manufacturers will use a chemically coated zinc oxide, because it’s easier to blend and work with. As more naturally-minded people, we want to find sunscreens that use uncoated zinc oxide.

In researching sunscreen brands, I liked the ones who spelled out their process and even measured their particle size. While some scientists say that smaller particles are OK, why take the risk. There are several brands out there who have measured their sunscreens and testify to larger particles, which is a bonus.

What is the best natural sunscreen IMHO?

I’ll go with a good better best approach here.

Good option: Kiss My Face

They’re rated a 2 and 3 respectively on EWG, and they are sunscreens so no white pasty look. We’ve used this brand before and like it.

Better option: Raw Elements

This was developed by a lifeguard and they have larger particles than most…. over 200 nanometer. They also exclusively use Zinc Oxide, which I prefer. Yes, it’s pastier but they do have a facial stick that I use with a tint to it. Perfect!

Best option: Sun clothing

For the best natural sunscreen, I’m going back to the protective sun clothing. Nothing nasty on your skin, no white paste, no fuss.

Check your sunscreen out at the EWG Skin Deep Databse

You can check the safety of your particular sunscreen brand at EWG’s Skin Deep Database, where they rank the best natural sunscreen, beauty, and body products. Look for products with a safety rating of 3 or below. The closer to zero the better!

What about DIY sunscreens?

If you are a DIY-er and love to do things like this, go for it. Keep in mind though that you definitely don’t want to use nanoparticle zinc oxide. This can be very dangerous to inhale. You also even need to be careful with non-nanoparticle zinc oxide. This is perhaps why I don’t mess with it. I’d rather have these products be made in a factory with industrialized machinery and plenty of safety measures intact.

Final thoughts

I hate to be sounding the alarm on yet another thing to get freaked out about in terms of natural living. But sunscreen can be a pretty nasty thing.

Especially the spray on or aerosol type of sunscreen! Avoid that stuff like the plague. First of all, you end up inhaling lots of it when you apply it. Secondly, a lot of those types are just plain toxic.

And, let me step back for a minute. Even toxic sunscreen is better than a sun burn! So if I was in a pinch, I’d go for the bad stuff.

But, when it’s up to me, you better believe I’m going for the best natural sunscreen as outlined above or for that protective clothing instead.

How about you?

What’s the best natural sunscreen that you use? Have you ever looked products up at EWG’s Skin Deep Database? Share with us in the comments below!

Enjoy this post?It would mean so much to me if you comment or share…

58 Comments

Chelsea Aug 13 at 8:30 pm

Josey Aug 7 at 8:11 pm

Thank you! Your post was so helpful. I ended up buying Thinkbaby sunscreen (EWG rating 1) but your post led me there after I clicked the link to the products you mentioned. It was difficult to find a safe sunscreen for my 6 month old.

Jane Jun 11 at 9:46 am

It’s super important to protect your eyes as well as your skin from the sun. I see patients every day who have become partially sighted due to age related macular degeneration which is too common and a major risk factor is sun damage to the retina. I always tell my patients to protect their eyes as well as their skin from the sun. Wear your shades!

holly Jun 8 at 5:14 pm

Cait Jun 8 at 2:41 pm

I’m a big fan of Kitchen Stewardship’s sunscreen reviews, so I was happy to recognize Kabana from the top of her list. If two of my favorites recommend it, it must be great 🙂 I think EWG can be a tool for people just getting started with a natural lifestyle, but I have sometimes found it confusing and unhelpful as well. Something I’ve found out recently was strange ratings for products that have 100% organic ingredients. They’re obviously safe enough to eat, but the numbers for them are bad. And on the other hand, some products/brands are rated really low when they use ingredients I wouldn’t be comfortable with. So I hesitate to send people there.

Veronica Jun 8 at 5:17 am

jill Jun 6 at 10:10 pm

Amy Jun 6 at 10:07 pm

As I understand it, getting a healthy amount of vitamin D through your diet (fermented cod liver oil) helps your body not be so susceptible to a sunburn. I notice I have a higher tolerance to sin exposure without being burned and I usually would burn at the drop of a hat, before fclo.

Mari Jun 6 at 8:42 am

Have you ever tried Badger or Ava Anderson Non-Toxic sunscreen? Both use non nano particle zinc oxide. Those are the two I have been using. I find that you have to reapply more often with zinc oxide based sunscreens vs. the standard oxybenzone and octinoxate based sunscreens.

Carolyn Jun 5 at 5:38 pm

Hey Genevieve!! Great video. Those chemicals are super nasty! Some of them, like retinyl palmitate (SP) can actually increase your chance of getting skin cancer although the sunscreen they are in advertise to reduce your chance. Funny how that works huh? Just wanted to throw out another brand I found to be very successful! Ava Anderson Non Toxic sunscreen. http://www.avaandersonnontoxic.com Got this for my son when he was about 5 months and I use it on myself as well. He is now 2 and has not gotten one sunburn! They also have a sun stick product which is very convenient. Active ingredients: zinc oxide (23%, non-nanoparticle). Inactive: beeswax (organic), theobroma cacao seed butter (organic cocoa butter), butyrospermum parkii (organic shea butter), olea europaea oil (organic olive oil), simmondsia chinensis (organic jojoba oil). I love the ingredients and it makes me feel very comfortable about what I’m putting on my/my kids’ body. Also wanted to add the EWG is a great resource but ultimately I use the ingredients as my guide on what products seem safe and all that. If I feel iffy about the ingredients, I try to avoid them. I will have to check out those sun shirts!

Mari Jun 6 at 8:43 am

Kate Jun 5 at 4:38 pm

Great review of sun protection options! I make my own sunblock bars from time to time, but one of the easiest (and cheapest) DIY recipes is just to use a lotion you like and mix in titanium dioxide. For a decently high SPF I mix about 1 part titanium dioxide (the non-nano type) to 3 parts lotion.

Erika Jun 5 at 4:12 pm

This was super helpful and informative, Genevieve! I’ve been stressing out about what sunscreen is best for my little ones all spring. Thanks for doing the research so I don’t have to!!! Blessings, Erika

CG Jun 5 at 3:30 pm

Cool you mentioned Raw Elements it’s the only one that really stays on in the water + is reef safe. So many “natural” mineral sunscreens have titanium but as you mentioned it’s not really an efficient sun block since it heats up, so they have to coat it with aluminum or dimethicone – which is NOT reef safe (not to mention safe if your kids accidentally get it in their mouths). Thanks for informing moms!

Julie Jun 5 at 12:17 pm

I love how timely your videos are. We are just starting to seriously spend the day outside- hanging out in the garden, going to the park, pool and on walks, it seems like we get dressed and go outside! I need new sun screen. Luckily peek hours fall on naptime around here!

I know you’ve been spending a lot of energy on your child birth series (which is awesome), but I’d really love to see some natural mama product recommendations for toddlers. I’d love to see more posts with “product showdowns” for things like sippy/straw cups, reusable squeeze pouches, popsicle moulds… ect

Maureen Jul 22 at 10:21 am

Alexa Jun 5 at 6:08 am

Ever considered making your own sunscreen without zinc oxide? I wasn’t comfortable using it, although a lot of sources consider it natural and harmless. So I use cocoa butter, coconut oil, carrot oil (homemade with sesame seed oil) and rasberry seed oil. I love the smell and that it is all natural, but have used it till now only when my girl is in the sun not for too long or it’s not midday etc. opting for a ‘natural’ bought sunscreen for those times, beeing too scared of sun burns. Although the rasberry seed oil is said to have a protection factor of up to 50.

Autumn Jun 5 at 12:09 am

Check out Green Beaver sunscreen, a Canadian brand but well.ca ships to the US for free. We use the spray but it is really a liquid lotion that I spray onto my hand and rub in, no inhalation risk. I am allergic to every other sunscreen. This has kept the whole family burn free even on tropical vacations.

Danielle Jun 4 at 11:23 pm

Jeanine Jun 4 at 10:00 pm

Hi Genevieve-

Thank you for sharing your thoughts on sunscreen and sun block. My favorite brand is Ocean Potion. I just checked it out on the ewg website and it ranks 4. That website is a wonderful resource I will use again.

On a different note, as a fellow Believer, I really loved your God section of the IRL. I’m not sure what your next series looks like but would love to encourage you to consider including a God section in your next theme.

Gina Jun 4 at 4:51 pm

A little surprised that you suggest going out in “safe sun” hours. The UVA and UVB are all unbalanced at the beginning and end of the day and it’s that very imbalance that contributes more to skin cancer. I take my kids out right around noon for 20-30 mins full force, they have never been burnt. Their skin very slowly tolerates a bit more sun as the summer progresses, and much longer than 30 minutes (or near water) we apply sunscreen. My 2 year old son has never been burned and with this same method for myself I havent been burned in years, get a nice color and all the health benefits from the sun.

treemamma Jun 4 at 7:20 pm

Yup I agree, off peak hou s are when you get less of the uv that helps with vitamin D production and more of the potentially harmful uv. My favorite sunblock is badger. It smells awesome and is rated well on ewg.

Tara Jun 4 at 2:56 pm

Great post! I’m a giant fan of sun shirts too! You can find such cute ones now and they are for sure the quickest and easiest sunblock. We used ThinkSport/ThinkBaby sunscreen for a few years and loved it. Then we switched to Lemongrass Spa and like it just about as well. Yeah, they’re both a little pasty, but whatever.

For myself, I tend to stick with my mineral makeup for my face sunscreen and, if the kids aren’t going to be getting wet, I’ve been known to plaster their faces, necks and other expose bits with my mineral SPF foundation as it’s so much quicker and less goopy. Plus, my kids giggle so sweetly when I’m buffing it in with a brush. 🙂

Eating a healthy diet with lots of lycopene is also a great way to boost our bodies’ natural sun protection. Thankfully the kids have never had more than a slight glow. They’ve got better genes for handling the sun than I have since their dad is Polynesian. I on the other hand (pasty gal) had at least 3-4 blistering sunburns in my childhood. 🙁 🙁

Alice Jun 4 at 2:44 pm

My son got badly sunburnt last year, when out for a day with no sunscreen at all. It was awful. How does this affect them? Is getting one sunburn a major thing? I still feel really guilty not to have used sunscreen that day! 🙁

Dana Jun 4 at 2:38 pm

Jennifer G. Jun 4 at 2:36 pm

Just dropping in to say thanks for sharing this!!! I’m a redhead so I tend to walk on the shady side of the street and wear a big sunhat .. but now that it’s pool season and my son is walking we are outside a lot during those peak sun hours, I found this super helpful. Looking forward to seeing the new show format 🙂

Erin Jun 4 at 1:43 pm

I use the EWG database for everything since I found it a few years ago. I’m also a little excited to see Kiss My Face on your list. Their products tend to be so much more affordable than some of the other “natural” brands… even ones that don’t rank as well for safety. Especially if you order through Vitacost.

Now we just need a video on bug repellents. The mosquitoes here are brutal. :-\ I know you and others have recipes for them, but we’d need to use it so often, I worry I won’t actually keep up with demand because I only DIY on things other than food when absolutely necessary. lol

Malissa Jun 6 at 8:09 am

Jessica Fatula Jun 22 at 12:00 pm

I’ve missed your IRL’s so much!!!! And miss just your overall online presence! I can’t wait for you to be back with regularly postings for your long-time readers, most of us mamas who aren’t pregnant but in a similar parenting position like you! Can’t wait! 💕